Responsible Gambling
Gambling can be an enjoyable activity when it stays in control. This page covers some practical points about keeping gambling manageable, and lists UK support organisations if you or someone you know needs help.
18+ only. Gambling involves financial risk. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. This site is an independent comparison platform. We do not provide gambling services.
The basics
- You must be 18 or over to gamble at any licensed UK operator.
- Gambling is entertainment, not a reliable way to make money.
- Set a budget before you start and stick to it.
- Set a time limit and stop when you reach it.
- Never chase losses by increasing stakes to recover money already spent.
- Gambling under stress, emotional pressure, or while under the influence of alcohol increases risk.
- If you feel you need to hide your gambling from others, that is a warning sign worth taking seriously.
Tools available at licensed UK operators
All operators holding a UK Gambling Commission licence are required to offer responsible gambling tools. These typically include:
- Deposit limits — set a daily, weekly, or monthly cap on deposits.
- Session limits — limit how long you can play in one session.
- Reality checks — periodic reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Self-exclusion — block yourself from a specific operator for a set period or indefinitely.
- Cool-off periods — a shorter break without full self-exclusion.
These tools are usually found in your account settings under a section labelled "Safer Gambling", "Responsible Gambling", or "Player Protection". You do not need to wait until gambling is a problem to use them.
GAMSTOP — national self-exclusion
GAMSTOP is a free service that lets you self-exclude from all UK Gambling Commission-licensed online gambling operators in a single step. Once registered, you will not be able to use any participating UK-licensed gambling site or app for the duration of your chosen exclusion period (minimum six months).
If you want to take a break from all UK-licensed online gambling, GAMSTOP is the most comprehensive way to do it.
GamCare
GamCare is the UK's leading provider of free support, information, and counselling for people affected by gambling problems. They run the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133, available 24/7) and offer online chat, counselling, and a forum for people in recovery.
GambleAware
GambleAware is an independent charity that commissions research, education, and treatment to reduce gambling-related harm. Their website includes self-assessment tools, guidance on identifying problem gambling, and information about treatment services across the UK.
UK Gambling Commission
The UK Gambling Commission is the government regulator responsible for licensing and regulating commercial gambling in Great Britain. If you have a complaint about a licensed operator that cannot be resolved directly, their website includes guidance on the formal complaints and dispute resolution process.
Concerned about someone else?
GamCare also provides guidance for people concerned about a friend or family member. The National Gambling Helpline is open to anyone affected by gambling, not just the person gambling. You can find resources at gamcare.org.uk.